Past Event

Michael Carvin, Drummer

A master drummer and teacher, Michael Carvin was born in Houston, Texas. His musical training began at age six with his father, one of the top drummers in Houston. By the age of twelve, he began playing professionally and won what would be the first of five consecutive Texas rudimental championships. Mr. Carvin's diverse career has included two years as a staff drummer with Motown Records and extensive studio and television work on the west coast. Joining Freddie Hubbard's band in 1973, Mr. Carvin moved to New York where he quickly gained a reputation as one of the most formidable drummers on the jazz scene. In addition to leading his own bands, Carvin's vast playing and recording experience includes work with Dizzy Gillespie, Dexter Gordon, Jackie McLean, Hank Jones, McCoy Tyner, Illinois Jacquet, Pharoah Sanders, Bobby Hutcherson, James Moody, Hampton Hawes, Ruth Brown, Johnny Hartman, Abbey Lincoln, Jimmy Smith, Hugh Masekela, Alice Coltrane, Cecil Taylor, Charles Brown, Terumasa Hino, Bobby Watson, Billy Bang and many others.

Michael Carvin has also established himself as one of the world's most respected drum teachers and clinicians. He's attracted students from Europe, South America, Australia, Japan and India. The alumni of the Michael Carvin School of Drumming in New York are among the elite drummers in music today.

Carvin has recorded over 250 albums. He endorses Pearl Drums and Istanbul Cymbals. The Michael Carvin Signature Drum Stick, which he designed, is available through Pro-Mark.
In conversation Carvin was witty, laughed heartily, and reflected wisdom earned from a lifetime of experience traveling the world with jazz greats.